Job Description

Role Overview

The

Head - Bus Operations

will be responsible for

end-to-end operational performance

of Universal Bus Services' interstate and intrastate bus fleet. This role is critical in ensuring

high fleet utilization, punctuality, safety, customer experience, cost control, and regulatory compliance

, while driving operational excellence across hubs, depots, and routes.

The role demands a

hands-on leader

with deep experience in large commercial bus operations, capable of managing multi-location teams and working closely with maintenance, finance, vendors, OEMs, and government authorities.

Key Responsibilities1. Fleet Operations & Route Management

Oversee daily operations of the bus fleet across all hubs and routes. Ensure

maximum fleet utilization

, optimal schedules, and minimal downtime. Monitor on-time performance, trip completion, cancellations, and breakdowns. Plan route expansions, rationalization, and service changes based on demand and profitability.

2. Operations Control & Performance Monitoring

Establish and monitor KPIs such as: Vehicle availability & operational days KM per bus per day Cost per km Breakdown frequency Fuel / energy efficiency Drive corrective actions to improve performance and reduce losses. Use MIS, dashboards, and ERP systems for real-time tracking and decision-making.

3. Driver & Crew Management

Oversee recruitment, deployment, rostering, and performance of drivers and onboard staff. Ensure strict adherence to duty hours, rest periods, and safety norms. Drive training programs for: Safe driving practices Customer service EV / new-technology orientation (where applicable) Implement disciplinary processes and incentive structures.

4. Safety, Compliance & Regulatory Liaison

Ensure compliance with: Motor Vehicles Act AITP / contract carriage permits State and interstate transport regulations Handle inspections, check-post issues, detentions, and penalties. Coordinate with Transport Departments, RTOs, and enforcement authorities. Ensure accident management, incident reporting, and insurance coordination.

5. Maintenance & Breakdown Coordination

Work closely with the maintenance team to ensure preventive and corrective maintenance. Reduce breakdowns through data-driven maintenance planning. Coordinate with OEMs, service partners, and spare-parts vendors. Ensure vehicle fitness, cleanliness, and readiness at all times.

6. Cost Control & Operational Profitability

Control operational expenses including fuel/energy, crew costs, tolls, permits, and repairs. Identify leakages, inefficiencies, and cost-saving opportunities. Support finance team in route-wise P&L analysis and budgeting. Ensure operational alignment with commercial agreements and aggregators (where applicable).

7. Customer Experience & Service Quality

Ensure high service standards in: Punctuality Cleanliness Crew behavior On-road issue resolution Monitor customer complaints, NPS, and feedback. Implement continuous improvements to enhance passenger experience.

8. Team Leadership & Expansion Readiness

Lead and mentor hub managers, operations managers, and field teams. Build scalable SOPs and processes for growth. Support introduction of new technologies, EV buses, and new business models. Act as the single point of accountability for operations during scale-up.

Key Skills & Competencies

Strong command over

intercity/interstate bus operations

Deep understanding of

Indian transport regulations

Data-driven decision-making and MIS expertise Crisis management and on-ground problem-solving Leadership across large, distributed teams Commercial acumen and cost optimization mindset Ability to work closely with founders and senior leadership

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Logistics, or related field
(MBA / PGDM in Operations preferred)

6-8+ years

of experience in commercial bus operations or large fleet management Prior experience managing

100+ buses across multiple states

is highly preferred Experience with

aggregator models, EV buses, or mixed fleets

will be an added advantage

Why Join Universal Bus Services

One of South India's largest and most respected private bus operators Exposure to

large-scale operations

, interstate networks, and future-ready mobility Opportunity to play a key role in

fleet expansion and electrification

High ownership role with direct impact on business performance
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: ₹1,800,000.00 - ₹3,000,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Health insurance Provident Fund
Work Location: In person